Filter
Top Products
Print media tasks and tips
16
Tips on choosing the right print media
Selecting the right paper or other media reduces printing problems. For best print quality, try a
sample of the paper or other media you are considering before buying large quantities.
Refer to the Card Stock & Label Guide available on our Lexmark Web site at www.lexmark.com for
more information about which paper provides optimum results for your printing environment.
Paper
• For the best print quality, use 20 lb (75 g/m
2
) xerographic, grain long paper.
The printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60 to 90 g/m
2
(16 to 24 lb bond) grain
long. Paper lighter than 60 g/m
2
(16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, causing
jams. Paper heavier than 90 g/m
2
(24 lb) should be fed through the optional 550-sheet tray or
the manual feeder.
• The laser printing process heats paper to high temperatures of 170°C (338°F) for non-MICR
applications. Use only paper able to withstand these temperatures without discoloring,
bleeding, or releasing hazardous emissions. Check with the manufacturer or vendor to
determine whether the paper you have chosen is acceptable for laser printers.
Preprinted forms and letterhead
• Use only forms and letterhead printed using an offset lithographic or engraved printing
process.
• Choose papers that absorb ink, but do not bleed.
• Avoid papers with rough or heavily textured surfaces.
Use papers printed with heat-resistant inks designed for use in xerographic copiers. The ink must
withstand temperatures of 170°C (338°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions. Use
inks that are not affected by the resin in toner. Inks that are oxidation-set or oil-based should meet
these requirements; latex inks might not. If you are in doubt, contact your paper supplier.
Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 170°C (338°F)
without melting or releasing hazardous emissions.
Transparencies
• Use transparencies designed specifically for laser printers. Transparencies must be able to
withstand temperatures of 170°C (338°F) without melting, discoloring, offsetting, or releasing
hazardous emissions.
We recommend Lexmark laser printer transparencies: part number 70X7240 for letter size
transparencies; part number 12A5010 for A4 size transparencies.
• To prevent print quality problems, avoid getting fingerprints on the transparencies.